Once the collector sensor is 20 degrees warmer than the storage tank sensor, the controller will power on both pumps. The fluid from the heat exchanger is pumped up to and through the collector, down into the drain back tank and back through the heat exchanger (repeating cycle). As the collector loop fluid meanders through the heat exchanger the heat is transferred to the storage tank water via the storage side pump.

When the collector temperature is 5 degrees warmer than the storage tank the controller will turn off the pumps. As a result the fluid in the collector loop will drain down via gravity to the drain back tank. If the storage tank reaches 170 degrees the controller will turn off the pumps and initiate the draining described above to prevent overheating. This simple design prevents freezing, over-heating and only runs when there is enough heat/sunlight.

 

The high quality collectors begin with the most important part of a solar water collector... the absorber and coating. The absorbers & coating are manufactured in Germany by the Tinox Corporation. The Tinox coating is the highest rated selective coating in the world (95% absorption and 3% irradiance). In addition the absorber fins are ultrasonically welded to the copper risers rather than a solder or mechanical crimp connection which will in most climates loosen over time.

The highly durable and efficient absorber is incased within a low iron prism solar glass and an electrostatic black coated aluminum frame. A thick UV resilient EPDM gasket connects the frame with the glass (no screws!). The collectors carry a 12 year warranty.

 

The system utilizes Goldline Controls' GL-30 Controller due to its reliability,
many functions and 5 year warranty.

Differential temperature control

8-20 F adjustable turn-on differential

4 F fixed turn-off differential

110-230 F adjustable high limit

Accuracy +/- 1 Degrees Fahrenheit

120 VAC input

20A, 2HP output

Includes line cord

 

The system kit includes preassembled brass and di-electric fittings along with custom dip tubes to easily turn any standard water heater into a solar storage tank.  Storage Tank and Drain Back Tank not included.

 

*It is recommended to aquire a new 80 gallon tank and 15 gallon (Drain Back Tank) from your local hardware/home improvement store which contains 2" to 3" of insulation.  The new tank, along with your current tank, will allow for more hot water storage.  Consequently you avoid paying for an expensive tank along with shipping costs. You also avoid the risk of breakage during a tank's shipment (most solar tanks are glass or stone lined).

 

Pending the application our systems utilize either Taco or Grundfos pumps. They have proven to be the most reliable, are easy to maintain and have the least draw of electricity as compared to other manufacturers.

 

12 year warranty on the collector and a lifetime warranty on the heat exchanger. There are various warranties on the remaining components.